Description of Anthemis altissima L.
Anthemis altissima L., commonly known as the tall chamomile, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, and it is widely distributed in these regions. It is an erect and robust plant that can grow up to 150 cm in height. The stems are sturdy and covered with fine, white hairs. The leaves are pinnate, with long and narrow leaflets that are deeply lobed. The flowers are large, with numerous petals, and have a yellow center.
Common Names
Anthemis altissima L. is known by several common names, including tall chamomile, towering chamomile, and giant chamomile.
Uses
The tall chamomile has been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to its numerous health benefits. It contains essential oils that have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. It is believed to be useful in the treatment of several health conditions, including headaches, fever, rheumatism, and menstrual disorders. Additionally, the flowers of Anthemis altissima L. can be used to make tea, which is known for its calming effects and can aid in insomnia relief.
General Appearance
Anthemis altissima L. has a striking appearance with its long stems and large, yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. When in full bloom, the flowers give out a sweet fragrance that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. It is an easy to grow plant that prefers a sunny and well-draining soil. Its robust growth habit makes it an excellent choice for garden borders or wildflower gardens.
Growth Conditions for Anthemis altissima L.
Anthemis altissima L. is a flowering plant native to Southern Europe and Western Asia. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is commonly known as the Tall chamomile. This plant typically grows up to 80cm tall, and its stem has many branches with feathery green foliage. It blooms in summer with clusters of yellow flowers with white rays.
Light Requirements
The Anthemis altissima L. plant prefers full sun or partial shade. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight to thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but prolonged shade will result in taller and weaker stems with fewer flowers. The plant may also become more susceptible to disease if grown in too much shade.
Temperature Requirements
Anthemis altissima L. thrives in warm temperatures typical of the Mediterranean climate. The plant prefers a temperature range of 18-25°C. It is a hardy plant and can tolerate some frost, but extreme cold can cause damage to the plant. In areas that experience harsh winters, the plant may require winter protection to survive.
Soil Requirements
The Anthemis altissima L. plant prefers a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate different soil types, including sandy, loamy, or gravelly soils. The soil pH should be neutral or slightly acidic, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It is also important to note that the plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils as it can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods for Anthemis altissima L.
Anthemis altissima L. is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant that can thrive in most soil types, including alkaline and poor soils. It requires a full sun exposure to ensure optimal growth and development.
The plant is propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. If you are starting from seeds, sow them in spring in well-draining soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moderately moist until they germinate, which usually takes about two to three weeks.
If you prefer stem cuttings, you can take them during the summer months. Cut the stem into four-inch sections and plant them in moist soil for root development. Ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. In about a month, the cuttings should develop roots, and you can transplant them to their permanent location in your garden.
Watering Needs
The watering requirements for Anthemis altissima L. are moderate, and it can tolerate dry conditions. However, during the growing season, you should water the plant regularly to encourage optimal growth and flowering. Water the plant deeply once a week, taking care not to wet the leaves to prevent fungal infections. In hot weather or dry conditions, you may need to water the plant more frequently.
Fertilization
Anthemis altissima L. does not require heavy fertilization and can thrive in poor soils. However, you can give it a boost by applying balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season or after the first flowering cycle. You can also apply a layer of well-rotted compost around the base of the plant to improve soil structure, retain moisture, and add nutrients.
To avoid overfertilization, you should follow the application rates on the fertilizer package and avoid applying fertilizer during dry spells or extreme heat.
Pruning
Anthemis altissima L. does not require pruning, but it benefits from deadheading. Regular deadheading encourages the plant to produce more flowers and prevents the formation of seeds that can self-sow and cause weed problems. Remove the spent blooms by pinching them off or using sharp pruning shears. You can also cut the stems back by a third after the first flowering cycle to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Propagation of Anthemis altissima L.
Anthemis altissima L., commonly known as Tall Chamomile or Giant Chamomile, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to Southeastern Europe and Western Asia but can also be found in other parts of the world. Anthemis altissima L. has become popular among gardeners due to its ornamental value and medicinal properties.
Propagation methods
The propagation of Anthemis altissima L. can be achieved through various methods which include:
- Seed propagation: This is the most common method of propagating Anthemis altissima L. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in spring or summer. The soil should be loosened and moist before sowing the seeds. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil and watered regularly until germination.
- Division: This method involves dividing the plant into smaller portions and replanting them. It is best done when the plant is dormant in early spring or late fall. The plant should be carefully dug up, and the root system divided into smaller portions using a sharp tool.
- Cuttings: This method involves taking cuttings from healthy stems of an established plant. The cuttings should be about 3 to 4 inches long and should have a few leaves. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist until the cuttings have rooted.
- Tissue culture: This method involves the use of tissue culture techniques to propagate Anthemis altissima L. It is a more complex method that is best done in a laboratory setting.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is essential to provide the plant with the right growing conditions. Anthemis altissima L. prefers well-draining soil, full sun exposure, and moderate watering.
Disease and Pest Management for Anthemis Altissima L.
Anthmis altissima L., also known as the Tall Chamomile, is a sun-loving plant commonly cultivated for its yellow flowers that bloom in late summer. Like other garden plants, this species can be susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Anthemis altissima and ways to treat and manage them.
Diseases
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, circular lesions on the leaves. The diseased spots can spread quickly, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid watering the foliage. Apply fungicides containing copper or neem oil to prevent the spread of spores.
Verticillium Wilt: Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease that results in wilting, yellowing, and dying of leaves. The fungi cause obstructions in the plant's vascular system, disrupting the flow of nutrients and water. To control this disease, remove and destroy infected parts. Fertilize the plant to promote root growth, and avoid overwatering.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are a common pest of Anthemis altissima. These insects suck plant sap and can create yellow spots on leaves. To control aphids, spray them with a forceful stream of water or apply insecticidal soap. Encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs can also help reduce their population.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on plant sap and cause yellow spots on leaves. Control this pest by regularly washing the foliage and spraying with insecticidal soap. Encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs or other beneficial insects can also help reduce spider mite numbers.
By following these tips, you can effectively manage these common diseases and pests that affect Anthemis altissima L. Keep the plant healthy and disease-free to ensure it blooms beautifully each summer.
